Since launching in 2014, Sydney-based Interior Architects Tom Mark Henry have completed an impressive 75 projects across residential, commercial, retail, hospitality and the work place. Founded by Cushla McFadden and Jade Nottage whose extensive knowledge, experience and creativity underpins their diverse and talented team, the Tom Mark Henry studio seeks to deliver an element of the unexpected. Beautiful spaces that foster a full sensory experience with many refined layers, this is demonstrated in their recently completed residential project Darlinghurst Terrace. Pared back to its original features, the former run down three-storey terrace has been filled with minimalist design and injected with contemporary details.
Although a significant intervention was needed to make the terrace habitable, particular care was taken to retain the original character of the building. The approach was to create a more functional floor plan, and pull natural light through the space. With a focus on the interplay of texture, the design team combined hard and soft finishes, contrasting matt and gloss surfaces, and light and dark to create intrigue and depth in an otherwise monochromatic palette. Describing these quiet juxtapositions as an exercise in restraint, with the goal to achieve balance and simplicity, I think they have more than delivered!
Because the scheme is so light and monochromatic, the team avoided using a cool white on the walls and joinery. The use of dark materials, like the new black stained timber stair case, provides a striking contrast, while the original sandstone walls add an element of drama.
The living area features a carefully curated collection of lighting and furniture including the &Tradition Pavilion armchair by Anderssen & Voll, the Arc Nordic floor lamp designed by Nanna Neergaard and Marie Hesseldahl for Le Klint and the Pena Cotta side table designed by Ron Gilad for Molteni & C. I also love the Cassina Lc7 Swivel Chair designed by Charlotte Perriand (next to the stairs), and beautiful 'Ballerina Series'Black Wire Sculpture (on the wall adjacent to the fireplace).
Light-filled and airy, the elegant dining space features an expansive custom-made table by Jonathan West and custom concrete bench paired with No.18 Thonet chairs. Tableware from Planet Furniture, stone vessels by Rina Menardi and Lesley Doe Ceramics, and a vintage plaster foot from Montmatre Concept Store provide earthy, organic touches.
The open kitchen and dining space leads out to a bright white courtyard, beautifully furnished and surrounded by lush greenery. I love the built in bench seating and Roly Poly Chair designed by Faye Toogood. The incredible bronze sculpture is by Morgan Shimeld.
Marble threads its way beautifully throughout the home - from the custom shelf in the living area, to the kitchen and bathrooms. The powder room and kitchen both feature a stunning white Emperador marble slab, honed from Euro Natural Stone.
A beautiful retreat, the bedroom's standstone walls are softened with textural curtains and bedding. The incredible Made in Ratio Cowrie chair, designed By Brodie Neill brings a sculptural element, while the fireplace and recessed niche above the bed provide the perfect places to house artworks and ceramics. The Fragile artwork is by Justin Dingwall and the white ceramics are from Planet Furniture.
Open, light and uncluttered, simplicity is the ultimate sophistication is this inspiring home.
Images courtesy of Tom Mark Henry